Namedropper, 08/30/13

- TERRY BONIFANTI)Published: August 29, 2013

Summit native nuke sub skipper

Clarks Summit native Commander Matthew R. Boland assumed command of the Los Angeles-class nuclear attack submarine USS Jacksonville on Aug. 2 in Pearl Harbor. A graduate of the United States Naval Academy class of 1996, Cmdr. Boland earned his bachelor's degree in systems engineering. He completed Joint Professional Military Education Phase I and earned a master's degree in electrical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School.

Cmdr. Boland served aboard the USS Newport News for operations in the Mediterranean Sea and Persian Gulf. He was engineer officer aboard the USS Hampton for a deployment in the Mediterranean Sea and operations in the Arctic. As executive officer aboard the USS Key West, he completed a western Pacific deployment. The Key West was awarded the Submarine Squadron Three Battle Efficiency Award during his tour.

His shore assignments included duty as a junior board member on the Pacific Fleet Nuclear Propulsion Examining Board. Cmdr. Boland served as flag aide to the commander, United States Pacific Fleet, and on the staff of the director, Undersea Warfare.

He wears a Navy Unit Commendation, a Meritorious Unit Commendation and two Battle Es. His personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal and the Navy Achievement Medal.

The Jacksonville, nicknamed "the Bold One" is 360 feet long and displaces 6,900 tons.

"It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your new commanding officer. I'm proud to be a member of your team and I'm ready to lead," Cmdr. Boland is quoted as saying to the Jacksonville's crew in a release prepared by Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class Steven Khor.

Cmdr. Boland and his wife Eileen, have a son, Liam, and a daughter, Piper.

U-Aut-2-Act finale

The U-Aut-2-Act Theater School for Autism actors, including Vinny Gonzalez, Caroline Mowry, Carl Neldkowski, Gen Scott and Jared Williams offered the final performance of their 2013 season at St. Mary's Villa.

Led by artistic director Geri Featherby, the players performed a play they designed, wrote and produced, much to the delight of residents, staff and families.

On hand to assist were Keli and Katie Lynch.

High notes

Seven current and former Lackawanna County commissioners, including Joseph Corcoran, Corey D. O'Brien, Patrick M. O'Malley, Robert Pettinato, Bruce Smallacombe, Jim Wansacz and Michael Washo were on hand for last week's 135th county birthday celebration on Courthouse Square. Each provided brief remarks on their experiences with the county over the years.

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